Sharper design and tech for Renault Austral hybrid SUV

• Updated styling theme
• Digital rear-view mirror and ‘contextual’ cruise control
• New front seats and better soundproofing

Renault has given its mid-size Austral SUV a stylish refresh, bringing sharper design, smarter tech and a more comfortable cabin to the hybrid-powered family favourite. The updated model is due to arrive in UK showrooms in the second half of 2025.

The revamped Renault Austral adopts the brand’s latest design language, giving it a more assertive stance and a clear family resemblance to the sleeker Rafale SUV. A redesigned front grille, new bumper and bonnet, plus 3D diamond patterns around the badge help it stand out. At the back, new light clusters feature an eye-catching square design inspired by Chinese tangram puzzles – giving the rear a distinctly high-tech feel.

Two new paint options, Naxos Blue and matte Satin Pearl White, join the range, with exclusive matte finishes offered on the sportier esprit Alpine trim. Gloss black detailing on the lower body and unique wheel designs should also enhance the new Austral’s road presence.

Inside, Renault has focused on comfort and quietness. New, more supportive front seats and upgraded upholstery – including a fabric made from 98% recycled materials – lift the cabin. Soundproofing has also been improved, with better door seals and laminated front windows on top trims to make the Austral quieter to travel in.

Rear passengers will benefit from a versatile 60:40 sliding and reclining bench that offers up to 274mm of knee room. Boot space ranges from a generous 527 litres to a van-like 1,736 litres with the seats folded flat.

What features does the facelifted Renault Austral have?

The updated Austral now features a new digital rear-view camera and “contextual” cruise control that adapts to the road conditions. The dashboard is dominated by Renault’s OpenR Link system with Google built-in, including Google Maps, Assistant and access to over 50 apps. Tech fans will appreciate the 12.3-inch digital dash, 12-inch touchscreen and even a 9.3-inch head-up display on higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity come as standard, along with over-the-air updates and predictive maintenance via the My Renault app.

Under the bonnet is a full hybrid E-Tech system producing 197bhp, combining a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine with two electric motors. Power is fed to the wheels via a clutchless automatic gearbox, and it’s capable of 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds and returns up to 60mpg, with CO2 emissions as low as 106g/km.

Drivers can choose between Eco, Comfort, Sport or Perso drive modes using the Multi-Sense system, which also lets you personalise the ambient lighting and digital displays.

Renault has crammed in up to 30 advanced driver aids (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control with lane centring, traffic sign recognition, and a handy ‘My Safety Switch’ that lets drivers customise up to five ADAS preferences with one button.

Level 2 autonomous driving is available via Renault’s ‘Active Driver Assist’ – which can keep the car at a set speed and centred in its lane – while rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, and emergency braking with junction detection ensure peace of mind.

Buyers can choose from three trims: Techno, Techno esprit Alpine and the top-spec Iconic esprit Alpine. The latter two bring a sporty edge with black roof rails, 20-inch ‘Altitude’ alloy wheels, and unique Alpine branding. Inside, you’ll find Alcantara trim, blue contrast stitching and aluminium pedals.

How much does the Renault Austral cost and when can I buy one?

The updated Renault Austral will be built in Palencia, Spain, and arrives in the UK in the second half of 2025. Pricing is expected to be confirmed closer to launch, but we wouldn’t anticipate a big jump up from the outgoing model, which starts from £34,695 in Techno trim and £38,695 in Iconic esprit Alpine.

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